Tucson, Arizona – Travel across southern Arizona’s higher elevations is expected to become increasingly hazardous starting Wednesday afternoon as a two-part winter storm moves through the region, bringing accumulating snow, falling snow levels, gusty winds, and difficult driving conditions through Thursday night.
According to the National Weather Service in Tucson, a Winter Weather Advisory is in effect from late Wednesday morning through late Thursday for multiple mountain zones, including the Catalina and Rincon Mountains, the Galiuro and Pinaleno Mountains, and the White Mountains of Graham and Greenlee counties. Officials warn that rapidly changing conditions could catch travelers off guard, particularly during evening and morning commute hours.
First Phase Brings Widespread Snow Wednesday Afternoon and Evening
The first wave of the storm system is expected to arrive Wednesday afternoon and continue into the evening hours. During this phase, snow levels are forecast to remain relatively high, generally between 7,000 and 7,500 feet. Despite the higher snow levels, moisture associated with this initial system will be sufficient to produce measurable snowfall in many mountain locations.
Forecasters expect 2 to 6 inches of snow during the first phase, mainly at elevations above 7,000 feet. While this initial accumulation may not seem extreme, it is likely to create slick road conditions, especially on mountain highways, curves, and shaded areas where snow and ice can persist longer.
Travel impacts may begin quickly as precipitation intensifies, particularly along routes leading to popular mountain destinations.
Colder Second System Lowers Snow Levels on Thursday
A second, colder storm system is expected to move into southern Arizona on Thursday, significantly increasing the potential for hazardous conditions. As colder air spreads into the region, snow levels are forecast to drop sharply, reaching near 5,000 feet by Thursday evening.
This colder system will be more efficient at producing snowfall. Additional accumulations of 4 to 8 inches are expected above 6,000 feet, with the heaviest snowfall occurring at higher elevations. Storm totals are forecast to reach 8 to 12 inches above 8,000 feet, with locally higher amounts possible at mountain peaks.
The combination of heavier snow rates and falling snow levels may cause rapidly deteriorating road conditions throughout Thursday, particularly during the morning and evening travel periods.
Mountain Communities Most at Risk
Several mountain communities and recreation areas are expected to be directly impacted by the storm. Locations most likely to experience snow-covered roads and reduced visibility include Mount Lemmon, Summerhaven, Hannagan Meadow, and Mount Graham.
In addition to snowfall, gusty winds are expected at higher elevations. These winds may lead to blowing snow, further reducing visibility and making driving conditions more dangerous on exposed mountain roads and ridgelines.
Officials caution that conditions can change quickly in mountain environments, even for experienced drivers.
Travel and Safety Recommendations
Transportation and weather officials are urging residents and visitors to take the storm seriously and plan accordingly. Unnecessary mountain travel should be avoided, especially during periods of heavier snowfall.
For those who must travel, safety recommendations include slowing down on slick roads, increasing following distance, and carrying winter travel supplies such as warm clothing, food, water, and traction devices. Drivers should also ensure vehicles are properly fueled and in good working condition before heading into higher elevations.
Road conditions may deteriorate rapidly, and temporary closures or restrictions are possible if snowfall intensifies.
Road Conditions and Updates
Travelers are encouraged to monitor real-time road conditions and closures through az511.gov, which provides the latest information on highways and mountain routes across Arizona. Weather advisories may be updated or expanded as the storm evolves, depending on snowfall totals and impacts.
Conditions are expected to gradually improve late Thursday night as the storm system exits the region, though lingering snow and icy patches could remain in shaded areas into Friday morning.
What to Expect Moving Forward
While this storm is expected to taper off by late Thursday night, forecasters note that winter weather patterns remain active, and additional advisories could follow in the coming days. Mountain residents and travelers should remain alert and prepared for changing conditions.
Staying informed and adjusting travel plans accordingly can help reduce the risk of accidents and delays during this significant winter weather event.
Have you experienced winter travel conditions in Arizona’s mountain areas? Share your experiences in the comments below.
